Can Dogs Eat Olives?
Caution — olive flesh is not toxic to dogs, but nearly all shop olives are BRINED and therefore very salty, and the pit brings tooth-fracture and obstruction risks. One or two plain, unsalted, pitted olives are fine.
Last reviewed: July 25, 2026
The problem is the salt and the pit, not the olive
Olives themselves are not toxic and provide fatty acids and vitamin E. But the version that reaches the table is brined: the high salt can cause intense thirst and vomiting, and in severe cases salt poisoning. Olives with vinegar, spices, garlic, or chili are additionally unsuitable — garlic is toxic to dogs.
The pit is the second risk: it is hard enough to fracture a tooth, and if swallowed it can lodge in the throat of a small dog or block the intestine. Olive paste and olive bread are also excluded because of the salt load.
If your dog swallowed an olive pit
Note how many were swallowed and call your veterinarian; gagging, repeated vomiting, loss of appetite, belly pain, or not passing stool point to an obstruction. If very salty olives were eaten, keep fresh water available and watch for excessive thirst, vomiting, and tremors.
Watch for these signs
- Excessive thirst and urination (salt)
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Gagging, difficulty swallowing (pit)
- Belly pain, unable to pass stool
If you notice any of these, contact a veterinarian without waiting.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give my dog olives?
One or two plain, unsalted (or well-rinsed), pitted olives will not trouble a healthy dog. But they are not a nutritional need — do not deliberately share brined olives.
Is olive oil good for dogs?
Small amounts of olive oil are usually well tolerated, and some veterinarians suggest it for skin and coat; but oil is calories, and too much brings diarrhea and pancreatitis risk. Set any supplement amount with your veterinarian.
My dog ate salted olives — what now?
A few usually pass with temporary stomach upset. Keep fresh water available without forcing it, and see your veterinarian if you notice excessive thirst, repeated vomiting, or tremors.
Related answers
Sources
This guide is based on publications from the following veterinary bodies. Where sources differ, we take the more cautious position; the final decision is always your veterinarian's.